We didn't exactly get anywhere today with very little wind. This morning was misty and overcast again, but this afternoon has been pretty special with a really thick fog closing in. It feels like there's a great big grey moist blanket draped over the world and just before it got dark the fog got so thick that I could hardly see 50 metres ahead. It's really a pretty amazing sight, but along with the almost complete silence, it's not far off feeling downright eerie.
I've been working hard not to let my imagination run away from itself, but it just feels so surreal sitting almost motionless with a big rolly swell passing undereath and the white swirling fog surrounding us. Now that it is dark Ella's Pink Lady'snavigation lights at the top of the mast are lighting up big rays of red and green fog. It feels like something out of a movie!
I think I've got the complete opposite to the sunshine, heat and the craziness of the last minute Christmas shopping that everyone's experiencing back home. Out here in my own little world things couldn't be any more different!
I have to say I've been feeling a bit homesick on and off today but I refuse to let it stop me from appreciating every moment out here.
I've been carefully planning out my Christmas dinner and the light winds mean that I'm almost constantly on my toes adjusting Parker's course. It's not exactly the most difficult task. I can normally correct Parker without even leaving the cabin by reaching out and adjusting the windvane line on the tiller, but the constant adjustments get a bit tedious when trying to get some down time.
Less than 2300nm to Cape Horn now, so despite all this slow progress we are slowly getting there. If this fog keeps up I'll be having a white Christmas of sorts!
Jesse
Profile
- Jessica Watson
- Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia
- Ambition: Become the youngest person to sail solo, nonstop and unassisted around the world
413 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 400 of 413 Newer› Newest»Hey there Jess, I hope you're well.
A passage from my favourite piece called Desiderata goes something like this..."Do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond the wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself". You have a right to be lonely Jess, especially at this time of the year. I'm sure your entire family and support crew are lonely for you too. But at the end of the day, honestly, where would you rather be? "And so this is Christmas, and what have we done?" Nothing compared to you. I know you may not feel so lucky right now but, believe it!
You know, great fiction novels come out of people's imaginations, maybe it'll help if you redirect all that energy into writing yours down. You never know, you may be another J K Rowling in the making. If nothing else, it may relieve you of the monotony (for lack of a better word, not wishing to offend anyone)of writing these updates and put you in a different perspective for a while.
If I were you I would be feeling very privileged to be experiencing a different aspect of mother nature's glory with the foggy conditions you find yourself in. I mean, how many times in your life have you expeirenced that which you are describing. Carpe Diem! Embrace and enjoy.
Most important, stay in the moment, alert and clipped on. This may well be the calm before the storm so to speak so not a good time to let your guard down. Having said that, one consolation I guess is that you are currently at an area I believe is sometimes refered to as Point Nemo, meaning that the likelihood of running into anything out there is near on impossible.
FWCS...Take care and bye for now...Sam
Go Jesse! Hang in there. Enjoy it while you can. Have a great Christmas.
Paul.
Dear bloggers, one and all. I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a very happy and safe christmas and all the very best for 2010. I have truly enjoyed participating in this blog with you and hope we can all continue to support Jessica through her entire journey. Being a Buddhist, christmas is not such a big deal on my calendar as in it is in yours but it makes no difference. As the Dalai Lama says..."My religion is Kindness and our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them, at least don't hurt them."
Take good care of yourselves and bye for now.
Kindest regards...Sam :-))
Merry Christmas Jesse,
I have followed you since day one, you are doing an amazing job out there. The fog sounds amazing, we will all toast you on Christmas day. My 16 year old was in Spain last year for Christmas on student exchange, we did what you will do the calling thing not the same but still great so you enjoy. Once again Merry Christmas and all the best wishes from the Sunshine Coast.
Hey Jess,
I just love reading your blog, it is like being there. Home sickness is real, but it does pass, well maybe not pass but does get easier to deal with if you accept it as a normal human emotion, thank you for keeping it real. I am heading bush tomorrow for xmas, no phone, no internet, so please have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I cant wait to get back and catch up with your tales.
Stay Safe
Berlin Red
Hi Jess, alison here from the arc factory...all the girls here have been closely reading your blogs and we just want to wish you a very merry christmas. We have been thinking about you every day and are sending you big big hugs!!!
alison
Hi Jessica
This one is for Pete of Cairns, No she can't anchor, this is a non-stop solo, and also the water is a little to deep, about 4 or 5 klms, so anchoring would be useless. Jesse could hove-too, that should be within the rules?
Cheers George Exmouth
Well we had over a couple of feet of snow here on Virginia this weekend which is quite rare - very cold. I wish you well in the colder weather and the serious fog!
Jessica
Sending good wishes to you Jesse, and your family - enjoy your unique Christmas.
Thank you for your gift of sharing your adventure with us.
Best wishes for a Happy Christmas also, to all the other bloggers out there.
Hi Jesse,
I can imagine that you will have a few moments of feeling homesick at this time of year, that is just normal, but after you get through Christmas, then you can look forward to a new year full of excitement, such as rounding Cape Horn and of course that is the year you will be sailing back into Sydney and it will be so wonderful.
Hang in there and have fun. Merry Christmas hope you have a great day! You are as always in our prayers and thoughts
so brave! you are my hero!
hello jesse!, if you land on south america, i'd like to visit us in Paraguay..merry christmas!
Dear Jess,
I decorated my Christmas tree tonight. It's filled with lovely gold stars and twinkly balls and lots of treasures from my days. I gently curled a shimmery pink ribbon around the tree trunk, from top to bottom, in your honor. The tree is about four feet tall and its lights shine so my neighbors can see it in the window. The angel at the top sings your Graces.
May you continue to feel at home with EPL and the sea. Safe sailing and favorable winds to you.
With love and respect for you and your Journey of Discovery,
Mary, Maine, USA
As a former English teacher of many years experience and as a current Ph D student of English literature, I have to say that I am totally rapt at the magic you put into your descriptions of your environment.
I also find it amazing that, in the latitudes in which you are currently placed, you are not hurtling along through big seas driven by gale-force winds. It just goes to show that our presuppositions can overwhelm us.
I love hearing from you and admire you greatly.
Ian from Brisbane
I want to join with Sam to wish all the bloggers (and not forgetting our dear Jessie) the happiest of Christmas and a trouble-free New Year.
Ian from Brisbane
Hey Jess,
What a wonderfully inspiring journey you are having so far. Have a lovely Christmas and look forward to seeing your progress in the 2010.! Go girl!
Dear Jess and awesome, tender-speaking bloggers,
May you have beautiful moments with family and friends over Christmas and the New Year. Wishing you all good health, joy and love, now and always.
I'd like to share a poem from Hafiz, a 14th cy.poet from Persia (Iran).
All The Hemispheres
Leave the familiar for a while.
Let your senses and bodies stretch out
Like a welcomed season
Onto the meadows and shores and hills.
Open up to the Roof.
Make a new water-mark on your excitement and love.
Like a blooming night flower,
Bestow your vital fragrance of happiness and giving
Upon our intimate assembly.
Change rooms in your mind for a day.
All the hemispheres in existence
Lie beside an equator
In your heart.
Greet Yourself
In your thousand other forms
As you mount the hidden tide and travel
Back home.
All the hemispheres in heaven
Are sitting around a fire
Chatting
While stitching themselves together
Into the Great Circle inside of You.
Mary, Maine, USA
Howdy Jesse! Gotta tell you how many good wishes we are sending your way! So proud of your accomplishments thus far, but they are growing with every sunrise! There is nothing eerier (sp?) than fog and we know that by now you are through it and on to other challenges. THANK YOU for the posts of the last couple days, climbing the mast and the video that allowed us to share the sail and true feel of the waves...We are considering that our Christmas Gift!
We thought of you many times today as we drove through the prairie and only laid eyes on one other person who was in a truck! Many wild turkeys, deer and hawks. Wild vast spaces on this earth are ours. You are such a special addition to this 'club'. Thank you for being safe out there and we can't wait to hear from you again. Stay warm and clipped on! Merry Christmas and Love from Wyoming, USA
awesome jessica what an inspiration to the world
hugs
bill
you are just awesome and inspirational jess
bill
Jessica, you are a great inspiration to many. Your Christmas pressie to the world.
Sounds pretty crazy out there!
keep up the good work and have a Merry Christmas
all the best...........
Kerry
At least your getting your money's worth. Wouldn't want you to feel cheated and miss any of the experience of your around the world trip. As for trying to reign in your imagination, I bet it's tough. Later on in life, when you face a challenge, you'll probably look back and think "Well, I went around the world by myself, I can get through anything". I wonder how your folks are holding up? Probably worried and very proud. Cheers, Lori (western Wa)
Jessica, you mention that you're feeling homesick. I know I'm being harsh here, but forget about home for now. You're only home is Ella's Pink Lady and while you are out there making your way around the globe, you are the commander of your own universe and the master of your own destiny. Keep your mind, heart, and spirit on track and it will be almost no time before you are arriving back to Australia, and to people who will have nothing but admiration and respect for you. You've got tons of guts - more than most of us - so we know you are going to pull this off in style.
Hey, just wait until you see all the Merry Christmas messages you'll be getting on Christmas day. I reckon they will just about crash your blog site!!!
Chris Akenfelds
Brisbane QLD
akenfelds @ lycos . com
vTo Richie Paris,
We can act as your delegate at Jesse's homecoming if you like.
It's going to be crazy but very patriotic I think.
Maybe I can print a flag with your blog name.
Best wishes for Christmas & the New Year.
The McGraths, Nowra NSW
Hi Jessica, I've really enjoyed your blog so far & am really looking forward to seeing you nail the circumnavigation :)
Merry christmas & fair winds!
Hi Jess,
I would be looking at calm seas and foggy conditions as opportunity to relax and catch some well deserved shut eye.
I'd drop sails, tie the tiller off and have a good quiet sleep and a bludge.
With no wind, even if you were headed 30 Degrees off course, you wouldn't be going anywhere anyway.
For what it's worth in meteorological terms: RADIATION FOG is produced by a mixing of cold air over a warm moist surface. ADVECTION FOG is produced by a mixing of warm moist air over a cold surface.
Sweet dreams!
Cobrarog
I love the way you describe your days and experiences. It sounds like quite a challenge and we're all very proud of you. You may feel homesick and alone Jessica but you've got friends the world over with you in thoughts and prayers. We check on your progress several times a day and look forward to your updates. Take care, Paul W., Fort Worth, Texas
Hi Jess
I was thinking....its a wonder your Pink Lady is still even afloat with half the world riding along with you and waiting for your posts each day!!! How can so many thoughts, hearts, wishes, love and good luck fit in one little boat?!!
You wont be alone in a boat on Christmas Day. We will probably be out on the water with our sandwiches too!! Mind you if we keep getting these storms we are having here in Hervey Bay, maybe we wont!! But I do know that our thoughts will be with you for sure.
Loving your descriptions of things and the mind pics you paint in our heads, and as homesick as you might feel from time to time, remember theres those on land who probably are feeling the same way because they are missing you.
So you concentrate on what you gotta do and leave the worrying to the landlubbers. You are doing something you want to do...are determined to do, so don't feel homesick.....love all of it up because you'll be back home all too soon. Then you'll be wishing you were still out there!!!!
You go girl!!!
Hi Jess, take some photos of the fog, they make some great photos and it will help you remember as the years go by.
Glad you are doing well, hope the weather doesn't get too cold for you, but I am sure it is a welcomed relief from the hot equator. Cold is usually bettter than hot as you can put on more.
Glad you got the electrical stuff fixed.
Do you have a heater on board? You may need it as the temps drop. But I am sure they are a power hog. You must have a mummy sleeping bag with you right?
Keep going, your doing great!
I would like to wish Jessica and her entire family along with each and every one of her tremendous support crew a very happy and safe christmas and new year. May all your problems be little ones. I know very well just how much effort, commitment and dedication by everyone is put into a project such as this and I don't take anything foregranted nor assume anything is insignificant. I know you will continue to give 100% until Jessica is safely back on terra firma. Congratulations on all your past, present and future efforts. I salute you with my greatest respect and admiration.
My kindest regards to you all...Sam
Holy Fog Bank!!! My mind would be working against me. Glad you are mentally tough!!! Sould like fun however. I want to wish you a Merry Christmas Jess. I will be away for awhile for the holiday. However your blog will be the first I catch up on. If the responses fall off a bit it's just the holiday. Everybody will be back.
Cheers!!
Have a very Merry Christmas, and good on ya. Thanks for the discriptive commentary, you are quite adept with your writing. Makes it fun to read the blogs. Lisa
Fog can be very eerie...and scarey, I think it's the sense of not being able to see in the distance and it can get the mind going. But it can create a sense of relaxation and peace.
Experiencing that in
alone in an ocean far from land will remain with you for the rest of your life...enjoy
Jessica,
Those who have been following your blog have become somewhat of a community. You have brought us together with your warm personality and by generously sharing your experiences with us. Even though many bloggers will undoubtly not have the opportunity to spend the holidays with family, we will all be able to share our best wishes with you. Thank you, Jess, for helping to make this such a special holiday season. Best wishes to you and to all of the bloggers.
Have fun, stay safe and happy sailing.
From Seattle, WA, USA
SaltyDog
My thoughts of home
appear like stars,
one by one through a swirling mist.
The Ella pitches, and rolls steadily.
Soft, and true, like a beating heart.
Another star appears,
In the mist.
Another thought, sets sail for home.
Pipefish, California Usa
Hi Jessica
Just love reading the detail you put into your blogs, please keep it coming.
All our best wishes for a Happy Christmas and keep safe.
Love from Faye and Max (Mulgrave Vic)
Hallo Jessica,
auch aus Germany frohe Weihnachten. Dir viel Glück auf deiner weiteren Reise!
Drücke dir die Daumen!
Lieben Gruß
Dennis
All the best for you and Merry X-Mas from Germany
Hermann and Christine
Here's hoping you are in the sunshine by now!
I'm certain Santa will have no difficulty locating you with your port and starboard lights radiating traditional Christmas colors. And, your mast will make an excellent substitute 'chimney' for him to come down!
You are going to have a wonderful and memorable Christmas at sea --count on it!
All of us out here in your growing Internet community adore you! Merry Christmas, precious one!
YOU GO GIRL !
Hugs and prayers,
Janell in Oklahoma, USA
All the best and HAPPY HOLIDAYS and a save trip
Regards from Germany
Hermann and Chris
Hope you have a great Christmas Day. Keep up the good job and good luck for the deep south.
Rick
Darwin
It is such a pleasure to read your blog. You are a greatwordsmith and make your journey such a fascinating read. You are able to take us all with you to the middle of the ocean, so there is no way you can be lonely.
Your blog will be a fabulous diary of your adventure, keep up the great work.
Enjoy your Chrismas and may you have health and happiness always.
Safe seas.
You are a source of great inspiration. I am a 70 year old who has sailed across the Pacific a couple of times (but not alone) and aim to go again next year. You are very mature, and seem to be approaching the challenges just right. I hope you will also be able to stop if necessary, still with your head held high. Good luck on your life changing adventure. Garry
It is funny what people write as comments...
Probably you are going to write a book about this. Maybe you already started because ocean crossing is not all that exciting if the weather is smooth. Don't forget to include the whole process of preparing and training. That is probably the most valuable information for would be circumnavigators.
Something else you are teaching someone (apart from the obvious things like courage, determination, maturity) - reading weather maps!!
Been following the weather where you are, gives me even more respect for you! The proper ones took me a while to get the hang of.
You are amazing. No other way to put it. I will be sending you many things via the sky on Christmas Day... and no doubt thousands of others will be too! All you have to do is look out for them.
xx
Something else you are teaching someone (apart from the obvious things like courage, determination, maturity) - reading weather maps!!
Been following the weather where you are, gives me even more respect for you! The proper ones took me a while to get the hang of.
You are amazing. No other way to put it. I will be sending you many things via the sky on Christmas Day... and no doubt thousands of others will be too! All you have to do is look out for them.
xx
looks like the moderators threw out my last post...so rah rah go Jessica hurrah....Bernie 777ps it was about reality world peace etc....
Hope the fog has cleared and you are in a nice bright blue ocean with a perfect wind.
Stay safe......keep the harness on!
Love reading your blog every day (or whenever you have time to write!) I just wanted to say that I hope you have a lovely christmas day. We will be thinking of you as I'm sure thousands of others will be. MERRY XMAS!! Love from the Hedley Family in Rosebud Victoria XX
Stay safe!
Hi Jessica,
As a friend left our home he looked at the Toowoomba fog and said it softens the landscape.
Sometimes in life we don't feel sure about which direction we should take. At these times we have to rely on technical assistance until the way is once more clearer to us.
As I read out you blog to our guests they were reassuring that you were far from land Easter Is. etc and shipping.
We pray you will be protected. That God will hold you in the palm of His hand.
Ian & Beth
No wind is idle time, you need knitting needles to knit a pair of gloves until the wind blows. Take care, read a book, or a manual of part of your equipment. Keep in great spirits as lots of us here are sailing with you. YGG.
just saw capt jess on the 7pm project on ten would have made her family and team proud go girl happy xmas and a great new year to jessica and all the other jessicians along for the ride Glen B
Hi Jess it would be a bit scary in all that fog, but don,t worry I don,t think you will run into to many other ships in the same area as you I think they would rather stay away from the horn, anyway just keep your eye on the radar every now and then that will get you through the fog.Hope you have a fantastic christmas day, stay safe and good sailing god bless Greg from Townsville.
Hi Jesse, I bet the cabin looks all Christmassy and the crew are getting ready for Christmas Day!! I love the idea of red and green nav lights, very appropriate. Of course it's understandable for you to feel a bit homesick at this time...it's family time, but don't worry you know you're not alone out there, we are always thinking of you Jesse. The eerie fog will pass soon enough and the sun will shine once more. How exciting to open your presents on Christmas Day... enjoy Jesse and go all out and eat to your hearts content... don't forget the chocolate!! Merry Christmas Jesse... Take care 'til next time.
Jo
Sydney
You must be in the rolling part of the roaring forties!
One thing I've noticed in the videos is the constant sound of the water, so when the water isn't rushing by, it must be eerily quiet, and adding in think fog, I can only imagine what it's like.
With 2200-2300nm to go and your estimate of now less than 20 days to cape horn, you must be making some excellent time.
I can't imagine not being a little homesick for your family and friends at Christmas...thankfully you got your crew on board, and they're an understanding lot, and won't take it personally!
Not many people have such a memorable first Christmas away form home.
I'm betting your Christmas dinner will be fancier than ours!
Blessings always,
Susan in Oregon
to pHey Jess
I hope the fog lifted this morning to produce a nice day for you and a bit more visibility.
You know, sometimes when we are alone part of that is our imagination going in different ways. Keep a reality check, only focus on what is real, the wind, the sea, ellas pink lady, your furry friends, christmas coming, the presents you habe yet to open, the wind in your hair, the coolness of the wind. Just keep acknowledging what is real ! Once the wind gets up again you will be focussed.
I just wish for one second you could see all of us here at home talking about Jess and EPL, blogging away with our computers on our laps, running to check every hour what you have to say this time, the joy it brings with your 'pictures in words'.
If you can somehow imagine that we are the 'wind beneath your wings' we are your 'strength when you are feeling lacking some', we are your strength when you feel weak' we are your company 'when you feel like a chat'...... Thats exactly what we all are....
You have incredible strength of character, skill, determination and focus. Im going to fly to Sydney to watch you come in through Sydney heads.... you are my hero.
Cheers Jess
Carole (Mackay) QLD
Dear Jesse, Wishing you some very warm wishes for a cosy and happy Christmas Day in the Southern Ocean. Have a wonderful day - you will never have another Christmas quite like it!
Jess
something to ponder
"A tourist sees with his eyes"
"A traveller sees with his heart"
You are definately the latter, you are seeing and feeling the adventure. Sometimes seeing what is around you, sometimes feeling what is within you. That is completely normal.....
You are going well. Dont worry about the slowness of yesterday, you will catch those nm up in a heartbeat.
Have a nice evening Captain Jessica.
Carole
Dear Jess, fellow bloggers and Samurai.
Thankyou Samurai for such a lovely message. As us bloggers unite with one thing in common, this amazing 16 year old from Australia, in her pink yacht EPL, I would also like to wish everyone around the globe a very merry christmas. It has been great to see a union of all nationalities, from all corners of the globe to support such a wonderful young lady.
May you all be blessed with a merry christmas, good health, and may your journey through life be filled with many 'real' moments, most of which are happy. All the best everyone, its been great sharing the journey.
Carole (Mackay) Queensland
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Hi Jesse
Rudolf is on his way.
Just a quick last minute note to wish you and your family a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS.Also to your many support staff and followers
seasons greetings and happy holidays.I know many will be busy supporting you during the Christmas festivities as I will.
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE
SALLY in MELBOURNE by the BAY
Hi Jessica,
Keep up the good work. I'm still keeping up with your blog. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Best regards
Jacob, Denmark
Wont be online for the next two days Jess so wanted to wish you a very pleasant day with lots of progress and happy thoughts on Christmas Day.
WILL BE THINKING OF YOU!
Keep on keeping on.
Much thought & hugs from Ally
(Sth Oz)
Jessica,
seeing as how it is Xmas, I am going to give you a poem of mine that is not sourced from your trip material, but rather your mentioning of fog.
You are an amazing young lady, and no matter what, not only are you going to finish this trip in style, but you are going to grow into a confident woman who will be looked up to by all.
One day, this poem, may well be you, but given it's Xmas, you have fog and Xmas is all about kiddies,
both religiously and emotionally, I hope you enjoy.
For those that don't like, or can't read poetry, just click on by.
God’s Book
Daddy Daddy, Mommy come look
God is so angry, he’s closing the book
Both leapt from bed, in a rushed urgent way
Racing to window, as dawn turned to day
Thick dense fog, had filled all the sky
Powdery snow, on the ground did there lie
Everything known, by wee lad before sleep
Sky and the ground, now white with the sleet
To one so wee, as this small worried lad
The puffy white fog, seemed frighteningly bad
He was taught about God, about all that he does
His anger, compassion, and responsive tough love
Now with this sight, wee lad never before viewed
His mind sees God’s wrath, wondering of what they’re accused
The fright on his face, the tears in his eyes
Tell them both gladly, their teachings were wise
Mommy reaches out, and places on knee
Points to the sky, where the snows falling free
The warmth of the fire, her soft sounding voice
Turns tiny red cheeks, to the picture it points
Mommy explains, no God is not sad
Not angry with them, nor treating them bad
It’s rather he’s happy, and silently sleeps
Leaving earth still, under white cloudy sheets
The snow is a present, for you my wee love
A present to play in, the sled we’ll both shove
The fog is a blanket, to keep us all snug
While god is a sleep, it’s his protective rug
They both sat together, and watched that shroud lift
Valley hills trees, a far distance cliff
God’s book was opening, sunny splendorous sight
In mommy's warm embrace, wee lad lost all his fright
The stories they’d taught, of God and his way
In their wee lad now, saw their teaching in play
Wee laddie secure, wrapped in motherly arms,
Parents looked skywards, and thought of the psalms
Thank you Lord dearly, the gift that you gave
Thank you for teaching our Son to be brave
©Brumbyy
Jessica, your Xmas is never going to be alone.
Hi Jessica. As you continue on your adventure I am full of admiration for your determination in taking on the mighty ocean. My niece is at present skiing to the South Pole with 6 other women from commonwealth countries and hope to be there by the 1st January. So it looks like 'girl power' is to the forefront! You may like to check them out on www.kasperskycommonwealthexpedition.com
Merry Christmas to you from New Zealand and good luck on your journey
Hey Jess,
“Living without faith is like driving in a fog.”
Sorry to hear your feeling a little home sick, Christmas this year won't be quite the same will it? - Hang in there we're thinking of you.....
Small steps
You're a legend
Mick MNC NSW
"Richie Paris" doesn't seem to know who Joan of Arc was.
Hi Jess,
You are certainly making good progress. Your posts are a great read and I enjoy them very much.
I am really enjoying following your progress.
Take care,
Aunty Carol from Scotland (another adopted Aunty!)
Jess,
Good to be with family at this time of year of course, but as you said its hot,crazy shopping lines, people everywhere and 30 fatalities on the roads already and its not even xmas yet. It'll all be here when ya get back. The google map is fantasic to track your voyage. Roll on the Horn eh - fair winds and blue skies, Jim P.
Happy Christmas.
Celebrating Christmas in a different place always makes me rethink what its about - which is a good thing.
Good sailing
Sue
This one is for "Samurai"
Thankyou Sam for your beautiful message to all of Jesse's bloggers. That was so nice to read and much appreciated. My husband and myself have never been involved with a blog previously but we too are enjoying this one via Jesse.
We will continue to follow Jess until she is safely home in Sydney Harbour, so take care Sam and wishing you love peace and happiness always.
The McGraths, Nowra NSW.
ps... love your "Buddhist" philosophy too. xx
good day jesse,
my computer crapped itself, so i have been unable to monitor your progress for the last week.
have borrowed a computer so that i can follow your dream.
keep up the good work and
take care young adventurer.
rod
blackbutt
qld
Hey Jesse, no need to be homesick, you are home, and we're all with you, you have lots and lots of company, from all over the world! Safe sailing.
ps. so, what's on your Christmas wish list? :-)
Kevin
kevin@pixelsandbits.co.za
Cape Town /\/¯¯¯¯¯\/\ South Africa
Hi Jesse, I've been following your great adventure from the beginning and would like to wish you a merry xmas and happy new year!
The fog sounds amazing. It was a 39 degree stinker here in Melbourne today. Look fwd to following the rest of your journey in 2010. All the best and take care out there.
If you changed your mind tomorrow and decided to end the journey.... would your support systems allow this? Just a concerned mom who follows you daily... with great admiration and respect!!!!
Hi Jesse,
I can only reiterate what other bloggers have said re
"homesickness" and it will pass once you get going again. Hang in there!
I've been on my own for a number of years now and have lived and worked pretty much all around Australia and New Zealand. Initially it was hard because of the close connections one has with family, friends and familiar surroundings too, but leaving the comfort of a secure environment came out of necessity...employment wise. These days I don't have a problem being on my own. Tho I'm often surrounded by people thru clubs, sports and work. Often it's nice to get away from it all to just 'blob out' so to speak. Having said that I love my family dearly and am constantly in touch with them via email and skype and we really spend good quality time whenever we come together. Suffice to say, one may feel alone, but can never truly be alone. Your loved ones (bless them) and a myriad of supporters from around the globe are there with ya.
Take care out there wontcha :)
Ben (Qld)
Merry Christmas Jessica, you are doing an amazing thing, regardless of your age. Out of 6 billion people on this planet you are in the process of joining a VERY exclusive club. The hard work will start soon, but if you have got this far, then you will take it in your stride. Enjoy the journey!!
Dave. Ulladulla
Christine Gold Coast,
Merry Christmas Jess, hope you get over the homesickness, it's to be expected this time of the year. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Happy safe sailing, you are going extremely well.
May Santa fill your sails and gives you a smooth ride. Have great X-mas and I'll catch ya in the new year. Cheers
Dear Jess,
Wishing you a wonderful day of sailing AND preparing for your Christmas day. Have fun!!
Words of praise to a few of our blogging family:
McGraths of Nowra NSW: I'd love to be represented on a flag at Jessica's homecoming. I think you're on to something!If you want to research cost, I'll gladly pay for whatever it costs to print and create the flag(s).
Sally in Melbourne: Your computer art is incredible. I tried to create a message for Jessica, way back when, and the whole thing fell apart. Of course, I wonder how you do it, but then again, I like the mystery of imagining you creating!
Brumbyy: your poem is SO lovely. All of your poems are great. Thanks.
xoxo Mary, Maine, USA
hi jess,
just wanted to add my wishes to you, your family, and your shore crew for a VERY, MERRY, HAPPY CHRISTMAS and a WONDERFUL NEW YEAR!!
your description of the fog and your nav lights is amazing. i can you just picture you out there in the vastness of the ocean bobbing around as if you're in another world.
be safe. be well. have fun.
andrew
richmond, va
12-23-09 @08:30
Hi Jessica,
I figure by the time this post reaches you that you will be out of the “soup”, at least I hope so. You must have really been flying, on your latest location on a map of your travels and notations, I have you figured between 1500nm and 2000nm to go to the Cape. Needless to say this is a very unprofessional estimate. In a previous post I had estimated that you would reach the Cape by 01-03-10. Just a S.W.A.G. LOL……….
But regardless of all this guessing, you are definitely getting closer, and will make it.
Looks like you’re heading into some rough seas, as per Passage Weather, on Thur. and Fri., but nothing to rough for you. That should be your thrilling ride for the Cape. LOL……..
Looking forward to your next post, with lots of pictures, yes, yes, yes ?????? (If possible)
Take care, stay hooked up and remember we all love you and pray for you.
Keep all them scallywags in line.
Always proud of you and always thinking of you.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full, and I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
Hi Jess...I just noticed you are nearing the point on Earth that is absolute furthest from land. You are all by your lonesome!!
Loved your description of the heavy fog....and the heavy swell rolling beneath you? Good luck trying to get some sleep just imagining all of the MASSIVE and HUGE unknown beasties that are lurking in that deep, deep cold water beneath your boat.
*shudder*
12-23-09 @08:40
For the Shore Crew:
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Thank you for a fine job taking care of our darling, Jessica, I know she’s your darling to and you’re proud to watch over her, so keep up the good work.
For Samurai:
Love the Santa Kitty.
You do yourself an injustice, I have found your pictures very enjoyable both front and rear. But I did have one helluva laugh over that comment. Your smile lights up your face.
Keep those posts coming. Cheers and enjoy yourself.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
Hi Jesse,
My last few blogs came up with an error, not sure what is going on.
You are certainly amazing, and continue to confirm this even more with every update to us, just love the effort you put into each and every one.
I would be surprised if you weren't a little homesick now and then, that is healthy, would be sad if you weren't - you appear to be able to turn these feelings into positive thoughts very quickly though which is great.
Have the best Christmas you can out there, so many people will be thinking of you rest assured.
Merry Christmas to your wonderful family and ground crew, and of course to all your adoptive families all around the world.
Enjoy the next chapter of your journey, our thoughts and prays are with you all the way.......x
-Lori, Brisbane
I love how all the old foggies in the fog love telling you what to do - in the middle of the Pacific Ocean!
And don't let your imagination run away with you BUT.........
I'd say it'd be a wonderful experience wrapped in a fog blanket with light-glow and silence??
Merry Xmas Jesse.
Ahoy Richie Paris,
I only speak English, and can only feel awe in the presence of someone who has mastered more than one tongue.
But as far as expression and communication are concerned, I would say that you are second to no one.
The value of this voyage has nothing to do with the superficial differences between folks--language being one of them--it has everything to do with the triumph of the human spirit. This triumph lifts all of us.
Reading your comments, your stories, your responses, makes this celebration abundantly clear. In a way, you are putting words to Jessica's music.
Of course we all are. But neither you, nor anyone, should have to make one iota of apology if English is not your mother tongue.
Richard Lathrop
Hi! Jessica,
It's good to know you are travelling well as I haven't posted for a few days even though I have read your messages. I have just finished a 8 hour shift nursing dementa patients which was a heavy shift.
All is well in which it is now Christmas eve morning in Canberra now 0103hours. Have a safe Ocean Christmas and take care.
All the best,
Pete (Canberra).
Merry Christmas!
Good luck out there!
Alex,
Volgograd-Russia
Dear Jess, Mom Julie and Dad Roger, and all of Jessica's family and skilled team, Merry and Joyful Christmas!
Possibly, Jess, you would allow your family to put a few more posts on to fill out your story a bit more?
Thank you to Mary, Maine, USA, for the Hafiz poetry! Amazing how a 14th century poet is so contemporary.
Mom Julie and Dad Roger, and all of Jessica's family and skilled team, our family is grateful you have set up Jess to have the "techy" stuff to share her heart and journey with us all around the globe, even though you are surely homesick for her, too, being at sea this Christmas.
I went back to the beginning, the earliest blog and read forward, studying photos and videos. As a mom of a very independent 12-year-old, I can see how you'd have to be "on board" with Jessica's dream or get left behind. She's got the heart of an ancient mariner at home on the sea, and the grateful joy of life that comes from a very loving and supportive family. I love how she has been so involved in every bit along the way, even into the diesel engine workings, and taking rock climbing for mast climb skills! She has had great practicality and patience building her skills since her dream formed about five years ago.
At some point, could you give a bit of history on your family? Your ideas on raising children to realize dreams? How your family is different than others and the same? If the other bloggers would be tolerant and indulge some of us in our curiosity, maybe you could describe your ideas about your children's schooling--what you wanted for them and what you intentionally avoided on their behalf? How did you go about finding true experts to assist Jessica? As parents, how have you kept your own pursuits and hobbies alive and what has been put on hold for the sake of raising a family? What were your own educations like? Do your other children have similarly strong passions for their own pursuits? How has this epic adventure impacted you financially and has sponsorship been sufficient to cover the measurable costs?
Thank you again and best wishes for your dreams coming true,
Mom of a Pink Fan Family
Northern Nevada, USA
Well if nobody has said it....
Merry Christmas !!!
By the way, ....
Stay safe and Straight Ahead !
Jess, I have witnessed your preperations and your ocean odessey thus far - over many months via the web.
Its a fantastic gift that you are sharing your voyage with the world.
You are not alone.
You are an inspiration to us all.
And espcially for my kids at 9 and 6. They both want to "Sail the world like Jessica!".
Fair winds and safe passage Skipper...
Jason (UK)
12-23-09 @ 13:22
To all my fellow bloggers:
I just want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and may you remain in good health and prosper in the coming New Year. I have really enjoyed your company and reading your posts. I have learned a lot about the computer, geography, history, sailing and people with your help. So it has been very educational to me. Never to old to learn. LOL…. Thank you one and all.
Jessica is a fine and a unique person, and she will succeed at her present venture, I hope to be able to follow her next one. (And there will be a next one).
Take care and best wishes to all.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
Jessica - hold on tight to your dream. Hug it and nurture it as you go through the these next few days out there all alone. This is a testing time but havent you already passed all previous tests with flying colors??
You have exceeded my expectations. I did not believe a 16 year old could do this and I said so! I was a naysayer.
You can do it...and you will!
Bless you and keep you safe.
Anne
hy Jesse!
i from hungarian and today read your blog once, and very intristing.
good luck for your way and merry christmas!!
Hi. Love your blog. It gets better every time. Keep up your spirits and you'll be there before you know it.
I hope Santa finds you and brings you much joy.
May you have a very happy and safe Christmas.
Jess,
Been following you progress every two or three days since your voyage began. I’m a middle aged resident of the Texas Panhandle (which is also fogbound today, with snow on the way), with very little sailing experience, so I can’t really say what it is about your quest that captured my imagination. I’ve always had an admiration for adventurers and explores, so perhaps that is the answer. On the other hand, as the father of two, perhaps I have a little paternalistic concern for your welfare. At any rate, here is what I wanted to say: 1) don’t let the eerie fog and your imagination get the better of you; fog is just another weather condition; 2) to the extent it does not detract from sailing your boat and keeping yourself safe, do your best to commit the images that you are seeing and the feelings that you are experiencing to memory and write it down, so that when you are old and grey you can reconnect with this part of your adventure; 3) always remember: courage, courage, courage! You could not have started this trip with out it and there is only one person who can take it away from you. And I know you won’t let that happen. When fear tries to raise its ugly head, grit your teeth, let out a war cry and clobber it! Just in case you need to be reminded, you are a remarkable young lady, embarked on a great adventure. May God bless and keep you, and do indeed have a very merry Christmas, knowing that your wellbeing and safe passage will be among the Christmas prayers of an untold number or strangers around the world.
W
g'day Jesse
Well Christmas eve is upon us. I want to wish you a huge fat humungous MERRY CHRISTMAS now because with three grandchildren aged 5,6 and 7 Santa will be around tonight and I imagine "pa" and nanny will be up with the birds tomorrow with excited children opening presents. We put the Christmas lights up last night..only used three power boards!!! Jess enjoy the day..enjoy your different Christmas one you will never forget and I hope at least one or two of your presents are not edible but perhaps things you can listen to or read. MERRY CHRISTMAS
Sea ya lol(oud)
Dusty from Dubbo
Good morning to all the Watson family and friends of Jessica
Merry Christmas to you all. I know the anxiety levels vary from day to day with Jess out there all alone. I think on average there about 250 plus comments per day that feel deep down much the same way. All up there is one sensible stong young lady out there going through emotional bits too eg homesickness etc now and then but with every blog I read I know she is going to make it..for herself and her family. Merry Christmas to you all...please not too many tears
You have a wonderful, brave,mentally strong daughter and friend.
All the best for tomorrow
Dusty from Dubbo
As usual, I'm enjoying all your posts. Hope the weather becomes a little more agreeable for sailing.
I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and trust that the day will be very enjoyable for you. I am sure that you will miss your family celebration, but next year will be great. We are expecting 10 to 20 inches of snow over the holiday here in Minnesota, so I can kinda envy your position.
Stay safe and God bless you.
Dave from Minnesota
hi jessica
hope you are well and i wish you a merry cristmas and a happy new year .
kepp up the good times and have a safe trip you rock gril
bye for now
Jess,
Just checked out your "voyage" map. You are closer to South America than Australia! Woohoo!
Good luck,
Andrew and Vicki (Queens Park, NSW)
Hello Jesse, this is Lynne in Picton, NZ again. You may not receive this as it is late in the blog time. Reading all the comments by others they have said it all. You have certainly made many friends.
I had said before although a restful Christmas I will miss not having my family around at this time, and understand you will have similar feelings. We will catch up with our families later though, as you will. Reading all the very lovely comments will bring a tear to your eyes on top of it all, it does me. That is probably a good thing we all need that releif. You I am sure must feel all the support all around the world, and love. The sun is only above the fog, and it will clear. Have a very special Christmas and all the best for the New Year.
Lynne NZ.
Great visual imagery Jess - I could feel the clammy fog as I read your posting. Best Wishes for a great Xmas (with a steady wind!) - there'll be lots of people thinking of you ... Bob
Feliz Navidad y Prospero 2010, y un cruce sin problemas por el Cabo de Hornos !!
And thankyou very much for giving us (the hundred of thousands following your progress all over the world) so much joy and inspiration with your courage and determination with such a down to earth attitude.
Hi,Jessica;
Since we are a day behind you and this is early from the USA,I just want to wish you young lady a merry Xmas and a New Year filled with much happiness along with your ''stuffy crew'' on board and your entire team on land.
You continue to gather a large world family and I know your USA family wishes the best this holiday season.
For the first time in many year's we will have a ''white xmas'' so that's an added bonus.I know the ''down under'' family are having another tough fire season and I want to wish all of them my wishes that they are safe and no loss of property along the way.
What are your plans to celebrate Xmas day,I have heard that someone will be paying you a visit on a water sled,he has your position so be on the lookout,don't forget the ''TREATS''the night before and I know you have been good.
That's all from me here in the northeast USA,we are expecting some sleet and ice on xmas morn then to rain in the PM,so I hope I can get to my destination in time.
My merest of wishes to you,and remember we all love you and are counting down the day's with you.
Don't forget to let your world family know what Santa brought you.
MERRY XMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM ALL OF US IN THE YOUR ''US'' FAMILY.
Hugs to you and your ''stuffy crew''.
Stephen M.
Transplanted ''Aussie'',
Maryland,USA.
Chrismas Eve here in Sydney. Hope you have a safe & happy Christmas out there in the middle of the Pacific. Give my regards to the albatrosses.
Paul.
Hi Jessica Could not leave for my holiday without wishing you a Merry Christmas. This may seem to be a quite and lonely Christmas out there in the South Pacific, but don't forget that this year hundreds of NEW friends are all wishing the best for you. It is also the Christmas that you will remember MOST for the many long years of Christmas's to come. Keep an eye out for Santa if the fog lifts. Hope you enjoy your SPECIAL Christmas Lunch... Love from Marie in OZ
Merry Christmas Jesse
Hi from Tassie. Just noticed you are about level with us latitudily (is there such a word?) so experience about the same sort of weather ie hot or cold or warm or rainy or fine.... all in one day! Hope your Christmas is festive and you have a chance to open some presents and have something special to eat and enjoy the spirit of the day. Still watching your blog daily and thinking of you along with all the others so you will never be alone out there - we are all with you in spirit!
Keep doing a fabulous job and enjoying yourself!
Merry Christmas Jess. I hope the fog lifts soon, but if not.. enjoy your white Christmas! Wishing you a speedy run to the cape!
Today's Inspirational Quote:
"You only live once--but if you work it right, once is
enough."
-- Joe Lewis
Jessica,
Merry Christmas to you. You are on the trip of a lifetime.
You blogs demonstrate that you have a worldly sense that we can only imagine. Thanks for all the great images.
Godspeed,
Andy
I was just thinking about you out in the wide blue and glad to get home so I can see how the Cap'n is faring. Yesterday I took a day off from work without pay..so you know I was serious..and collected our Christmas present to ourselves..a cute nautical themed 18' long travel trailer called a T@da. It had to be able to sleep 3, incase its used for Hurricane Evacuations..one of the prime reasons for investing in it..and of course the kids are always going camping and asking us to go..which we like..but sorry to sat tents and sleeping on the ground are not our favorites..anyway..I headed to St,.Augustine where I had located one of these really neat nautical themed-round port like windows and really neat mini kitchen and of course it didn't escape me that Pink lady is 16' longer than our little sleeper..
I thought about the solar panels you're using thinking maybe i'll buy a set to keep the batts up. and even looking again at your wind gen....
How tall is your mast? It looks like maybe 60 feet. Quite a view you had from up there. Hopefully you kept a few videos that you have not seen and even hidden some surprises in the familiar and the now cozy space you call home.
Now I know the fog can seem erie..just driving to work in the stuff can be un nerving.. but don't you fret..God' fingerprints are all over your little pink vessel..May His confidence hold you through this mist and grey to the blue you know is on the otherside..I'm praying for some wind to push you into the clear..but not too swiftly..you deserve a break from the rolly polly rocking.
Be Blessed
Miss Jess..
Gary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
Merry Christmas Jessica from Brett, Debi, William and Alexander.
You are part of our breakfast now as we follow your journey every morning.
Keep safe.
I believe that I have happened on the most amazing tale I have ever heard.
I cannot wait for the next blog, I am hooked.
God Bless and Merry Christmas.
Lisa, Mo
Merry Christmas Jess. May Santa bring you all your dreams.
Paul.
Jess
You are not and won't be, we are all with you connected.
I have experimented something similiar en the mountains with the fog and the snow, it's so weird and surreal as you say.
Have fun and HAPPY CHRISTMAS!!
HUGS and cheers
Alex
MERRY CHRISTMAS Jessica
Jesse
We love following your blog and tracking your progress. Keep up the good work and I hope you have a very good Christmas with a nice reaching breeze. We have briefed Santa on your location so please don't forget to put your socking out.
Regards
Richard, Sandra, Jordan, Connor and Mia
i Jess:
If you have 2300 nautical miles to the Horn, at roughly 150 miles a day, that means u should be there in around 17 days, give or take a few days. Great!!!!!!!!! :-)
Fog is cool as long as u don't have to worry about ships. It's certainly is a surreal experience and we get plenty of that where I live, so one becomes use to it. I kind of like it, but not without the eyes of one's electronics.
Enjoy these moments they will last a life time, with your writings. :-))
Robert
Now for a bit of 'Maiden Voyage' as Tania creeps up on Christmas..on page 191 Tania crises past a place you know well. Christmas Island. Tania unlike our current global mariner..had the luxury of being able to stop and she was very impressed with the multitude of..red crabs that inhabit Christmas Island..Tania said " On Dec 8 she set sail for Sri Lanka, 1800 miles away..through the doldrums and over the equator..then on page 192.."Immense waves buried first the boom and on the next roll, the spinnaker pole as 20 to 30 knot winds pushed Varuna steadily forward for 8 days- a far cry from the lax Arafura Sea. The strain on the rigging was relayed to my nerves..The next morning a disagreeable drizzle settled in and I was alone...For two days Varuna slowly eased North toward the Equator, as a menacing sky of lumbering black clouds closed in. Passing through the curtain of doldrums, we entered a world of flat calms, squalls, rain, and meager advances of only 30 miles a day. I resewed the rapidly disintegrating sprayhood (perhaps what you call a 'dodger?')made a splint for a broken main sail batten, cleaned up, knitted, read a couple of books, and on the third day of a glassy ocean, decided it was time to try the engine. The starter turned for about thirty seconds, nothing else happened, and a day of mechanics was born..." after a very interesting description of desperation of finding the diesel had siphoned into the bilge..she was once again engineless..." I wrote down prayers in my logbook..covered 600 miles.inch by aching inch...over the next 2 weeks."..on page 193..One night I was awakened by drops of water. Hearing no rain on deck, I reached up to turn on the light and there was a soaking wet Tarzoon shaking himself over to me. The little 'idiot' had managed to fall overboardand clamber back up somehow..without my noticing."..I played with the sails coaxing Varuna alongin vague breezes, and each mile was welll earned. During the nights unable to live with the slatting noise of the limp sails, I took down the slamming offenders and slept. There seemed no point in losing sleep for the sake of a couple of miles made good. Twice we were helped along by aggressive fronts with lots of wind..The second one fell on Christmas..Merry Christmas Tania..and as a special present, heres a nice gray sky, lots of rain, and the gift of sorely needed exercise taking reefs in and out, in and out. I thought about my family back home gathered around one of Jeris' magnificent trees bedecked in cranberry and popcorn strings with presents heaped around the floor..." She thought and described the meal she knew everyone was having then.."I emptied cans of sauerkraut and hot dogs into my pressure cooker and peeled up somepotatoes in the cockpit..dreaming about a white New York Christmas.. the cooker spewed steam..and ten minutes later ..Christmas dinner was ready and I opened my present while it cooled off...She decided she was better off on Varuna in the Indian Ocean than in New York with Radio and TV telling me what fun it was supposed to be.."
Maiden Voyage
Dec 25 1986
Tania Aebi..
See Jess she had alot of the same things you have..minus the fuel in the bilge thank you..and hopefully your dinner is something tastier than Kraut and Dogs..(though that can be good too..)
Sleep Well..And Wake to the wonder of the Pink Lady and the Journey..God' Grace...
Gary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
The Word Verification is 'Kinar' similar to the hebrew word 'Kinnor' whix is a type of lyre-the word is translated 'harp' and 'psaltery' in Psalms and Revelation..It was a 10 stringed zither..that David played..no telling how many those in Luke held by the Angelic hosts singing 'Glory To God In The Highest' And on Earth Peace..Good Will..toward men.."
I'd bet the rigging on the Pink Lady gets to sing some times too..
Sleep well..
Gary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
This was cut from the last posting as too long...But I still wanted to say it...:O)
" Absolutely I couldn't agree more..Take photos of the lights in the fog..its pretty incredible how they look and even Pink Lady..I love to go on Photo Safari..You are on the Safari..and Pink Lady is your Magic Carpet..I love going out early just a day break on a nice foggy morning and shooting pix..And its all the more amazing today..digital pix let you see the magic without the wait..I used to have to wait to see if I got what i was aiming for..35mm film..I still use it but not as much..."
Gary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
"" Oo..I nearly forgot..You aren't missing Christmas..I know many others are sending special greet cards for you from all over the globe.. I know put ours in the box yesterday morning..on its way to Aussie country..as are you..
Gary & Jan
Savannah,Ga
Jessica, the photo attached is a painting called "Rounding the Horn" by Carl Evers. It's one of my favorites, recently placed on my wall in recognition of your forthcoming trip around the horn. I pray your safe journey.
Hi Jessica,
Another beautifully descriptive blog which allows us all to feel so much part of this journey.
I have been glancing through some of the comments you receive and I have found one which says all I have been trying to put into words. It was from MON (John Ackland) where he describes this venture as a spiritual or sacred journey which you are doing not only for yourself but for all young women. I think this is one blog you should file away somewhere for easy access and to read when you are feeling a bit lonely.
Jessica you are a real inspiration to us all, your use of language involves us so much - Infinite gratitude, Infinite success.
Please post a photo of EPL all dressed up for Christmas and, of course, one of yourself tucking into Christmas dinner!
Deep Peace and Merry Christmas to you and may your guardians see that the weather gods keep you moving along the way to accomplishment.
Tom, Tasmania.
Hi Jesse,
I piloted a ship out of Brisbane today called "Sat Bellatrix" with a load of fertiliser for Brazil.
She's due Cape Horn in 18 days (about Jan 11/12) so will keep a lookout for you! She has a grey hull with a white "K"(for Kawana) on the funnel. Merry Christmas and take care.
Kevin Fuge, Brisbane Pilot
Merry Christmas Jessica, and a happy new year. It has been a pleasure following your blog. Our thoughts and prayers are with you on your trip around the world. Lisa, Accord, NY
Hi Jessica. My blog photo is of our decorated Christmas tree. Just imagine you have it with you. Enjoy your Christmas dinner and your gifts from your folks back home. Wish we could train the wind to blow in your favour.
Merry Christmas to you and your faithful crew. Best wishes..Russ/Calgary
Hi Jessica,
First time posting here, but have been following your blog since before you left on your voyage. You have SUCH a beautiful way of writing --- we can almost smell the sea air and feel the breeze in our faces as you and Ella's Pink Lady sail across the ocean!
Like a few others here, I followed Zac's journey. I have no doubt that you, too, will have an incredible story to tell! What an inspiration you are to so many.
One year ago I sent special Christmas wishes to Zac as he was approaching South Africa. Today, I am wishing you the most glorious holiday ever, Jesse. It will, no doubt, be a Christmas that you will never forget. Have you figured out what you'll be having for Christmas dinner? We are all anxious to hear...
Until next time, wishing you fair winds and a Very Merry Christmas! I don't think Santa will have trouble at all finding your cute pink yacht in the blue Pacific!
Sail on...
Blessings to you, Jesse, and your "blog family"!
Marie, WA St., USA
Merry Christmas Jesse. Hope you keep your spirits as high as they have been. Safe travels and take care. God speed. Cheers.
The Coopers, Tamworth OZ
Hello Jesse,
I can remember those misty and foggy days when I went duck hunting...its just a beautiful site to see and I can imagine how it is out there on the water.
Ahhhhhhh...don't let your mind wonder off to far, keep that chin up with a big smile and just think positive about everything around you, yes it can get lonely out there.
That's the girl Christmas spirits, and yes I know you have someting in the making for Christmas dinner.
Wow, your closing fast on the Cape.
We are all thinking of you, Sail On!
Safe Sailing
Marion from Oklahoma City(USA)
Every day I have a quick look to see how you are going and continue to be impressed with your determination and resolve. You may be sailing alone but I am sure you realise that there are lots of us with you in spirit. Merry Christmas Jessica, and may your New Year bring you fair winds and a safe and speedy journey.
Well told, as always!
It's funny to hear about folks at home preparing for Christmas in the *heat*. It can be fairly decent weather here in California, but even we tend to think of Christmas as the chilliest time of year.
Do you Aussies have any holidays in your winter to break up the dreariness, or does it just not get that cold even in winter to wish for a break?
'Looks like that is yet another subject I should read up on, "Climate in Australia".
I'm on it!
Take care and blessings,
Tracie
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas. There are many many people world wide who are following your adventure and we are all thinking of you at this time.
Michael
merry christmas jessica and a safe sailing new year.
cassie(tas)
Jesse I'm going to wish you a Merry Christmas now as am off to my daughter's for a few days and not sure when I'll be able to get on the computer....... I'll try tomorrow morning but if not have a wonderful day opening your pressies xxx
Merry Christmas Jess!mativite
Find a way out of that FOG, JW, it's not good for my old heart.
Enjoy the most unusual Christmas you have ever had!
with best wishes from
graeme and annabelle dodd
Your gift is your bad singing.
See where it lands you? lol Your mum and dad aren't stupid at all. lol
Don't stop singing Jess! It may just lift that fog. The constant annoying singing to Parker and Ella's pink lady may in fact get you home a lot quicker than you think! ;)
Hope your ok Jess! The weather's a bit nuts in Melbourne at the mo... Think it's the same everywhere! Sort of like a lot of people this time of year.
Have a great Christmas Jess! Your so not alone! Will try to post ya a merry x mas tomoz. I reckon you'll be swamped with best wishes.
Be safe Jesse!
Ps! I'm sure your singing would rock BTW!
Happy Christmas Everyone!
Billy!
Merry Christmas Jessica and may you sail in calm waters.
Good Luck.
Bruce Watt
hi Jesse,
Really sounds like a white Christmas with a difference. And it does sound like one of those eerie films about ships, but you sound like a really down to earth person who can keep her imagination in check. And like all other weather patterns, this too shall pass.
Less than 2300 nm to go, that is amazing! It sounds as though you must have been flying along, and yet I think the wind hasn't been that strong, so you must be sailing EPL well.
Every time you feel homesick just think of the heat, the flies, endless fattening food, the awful rum balls that Aunt whoever made ... again, the out of tune carol singing. No doubt you will be in lots of contact with family and friends on Christmas Day, which one by the way, yours or theirs ... or both?
I bet you're preparing the best Christmas dinner for you and your motley crew, and maybe Parker too.
If we don't hear from you again before Christmas Day, keep the nav lights burning so Santa can find you, may you stay safe and may you have deep contentment in your special world.
Happy Christmas
Toni
PS I think we would all love a pic of you with your Christmas dinner if you're not too busy.
Merry Christmas Jessica,
I hope your day is joyous in thinking of those you love and who love you.
Keep your spirits up. This will all be worth it in the end. Have a great christmas and remember this will be something to tell your grandkids all about.
God bless you
Merry Christmas from Canada....Cheering for you!!!
Merry Christmas Jesse! My thoughts, like so many others will be out there with you on Christmas, so it shouldn't be a lonely day =) you're such an inspiration! Is that gum leaf still hanging from your nav station? You have my very best wishes and admiration. Will raise a glass in your honour on new years eve too - I'll be out in a kayak somewhere with Jess. Take care. Chris bray.
Merry Christmas Jessica,we hope you have a beautiful day.God bless you.
Love,
Don & Lek Haren
Daytona Beach,Fl.
Middle of the ocean in a fog like you or the bottom end of a cave like me once. When all the disturbances of the world are removed, sometimes it is the world itself you hear. Failing that, I don't know if the Pink Lady has a fog horn, but I imagine she has some really nice speakers :)
Gday Jessica
How I would love to be in that fog right now! It is 42 degrees in Nowra (NSW) and a strong wind that only you would like!
Enjoy the solitude in the fog... the quietness is surreal and your imagination has total control of you.
I will toast you tomorrow (Christmas morning) and wish you fair winds
Mr W
Hello Jess
Its Keith from Melbourne here again, for a second time believe it or not. As I said before, I've never ever posted before.
So here you are, not so far haha from Cape Horn, as Christmas comes (hopefully) for all Christians and many non-Christians. It was lovely to hear about your preparations for Xmas Day, and it seems many have done a lot and will do a lot to make it special for you. Not that anybody needs to, you are in a pretty special place already.
You are out there, in and out of the fog, and we are here, in and out of the stores. I know where I would rather be.
It is lovely to be with family and friends for Xmas, but I suspect your family and friends will be more with you than ever before - only not in body. You are not isolated, just secluded.
Tomorrow I will quietly wish you Merry Xmas and all the Best.
take care dear(unnecessary to say I know)
Keith
PS are you able to watch satellite TV, or would you like to be able to do so...........???????
Hiya, Jess!
Here in Maine, we have two more sleeps until Christmas Day...I'm thinking of you and noting your excitement for celebrating Christmas on the high seas and talking with your family as you open your treat bags.
Wishing you clear skies and sun, with favorable winds...and great food!
With love and respect,
Mary, Maine, USA
Merry Christmas to you Jess. Hope you have a very safe and interesting Christmas. God bless
Debbie Mill
HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVE?! in australia... its soo kool your spending it with nature!
Hello Jesse, haven't commented for a while, been busy working and catching up on sleep, something you must need to do. Great posts from you especially "up the mast"
whoa that made me dizzy just to look at the pic, can't imagine doing that out in the middle of the pacific ocean. We are expecting flooding rains here for Xmas day, will be a change from the dust and heat. Wishing you the very best Christmas and happy sailing, hope the fog didn't hang around for too long. Merry Christmas to fellow bloggers and the team supporting Jesse.
Bron, Central West NSW
MERRY CHRISTMAS JESSE! It's 2.24pm on Christmas Eve back home in QLD and I just checked in for my daily 'Jesse' update. Your Christmas sounds very special and one you will always remember. It's hot and humid here just like a typical Qld Christmas. We'll be thinking of you tomorrow. Stay safe and be happy. All the very best from Chris & family.
that does sound a little eerie. but good on ya mate, glad to hear you're not letting anything get ya down. you've traveled quite a fare way nearly at america, even if you have had some slow days.
keep up the great work mate, n enjoy your christmas!! you rock!
I wish I were in your shoes right now. As far away from xmas as possible with green and red fog to boot. It all sounds pretty amazing. Enjoy it, you're not missing much. Happy Winter Solstice!!
Hey Jesse,
Here's some cracker jokes for you
Q. Why do reindeer scratch themselves?
A. Because they're the only ones who know where they itch
Q: What did the snowman say to the other snowman?
A: Smells like carrots
Q:What time is it when an elephant sits on your fence?
A:Time to get a new fence.
Have a cool Yule
StuntTrader
Tasmania
Hi Jess
Have been following you from the start & we admire your spirit of adventure. We enjoy your down to earth blogs which give us a personal insight into how you are going. Merry Christmas & Have a Safe & Enjoyable trip.
Jo_v_Al
its been a while since i last worte.. but i just want to congratulate you for all this rip, u are awesome and brave, Earth needs more people like you... anyway its almost christmas, so i just want you to know that my prayers and xmas thougts are with you. have a nice time.
Chris
Mexico City
Hi Jess
Have a very Happy Christmas out in the South Pacific. Hope weather is calm enough for you to make something yum for Chrissy dinner. Also hope you find all your Christmas presents.
Safe journey down to the Horn & every best wish for the rest of the voyage.
You're a real inspiration
David
Hi Jessica
Just wanted to wish you a happy and safe Christmas from all the staff at Bias Boating. We have all been following your progress with great interest.
All the Best
The Bias Crew
Ahoy!! Skipper Jesse...
Wish u a fair & sound voyage.
Keep it going Champ!!
Merry Xmas Jess! I hope you spoil yourself rotten with an abundance of good food and presents on your wonderful boat which is doing a wonderful job. So relieved that your brilliant support team (electrician) got you through the latest test. Go Ella!
I hope the weather treats you as well.
On your return, I do hope you consider entering politics and becoming our first female prime minister... we need more people like you who are doing amazing things to positively inspire thousands... your abundance of excellence, courage, idealism, perseverance, determination etc. etc. is an incredible role model for all Australians.
Have a wonderful Xmas eve and day... Will be thinking of you as you move through Xmas and into the new year.
X
I feel so lucky to read your blog I am a land lubber......I am in awe of you I am trying as hard as I can to watch over you and take care of you But alas I realize that the point is that you are doing great on your own.... You keep it up and know I am out here helping in my only way I know how - Spiritual Support - Merry Christmas Jesse
Thanks to your shore team for updating us on the Latest News section of your website. Never heard of Point Nemo before. Happy Christmas to you Jessica and thank you for inspiring us.
Chloe
To Dear Jesse, her family and all her team on shore. Merry Christmas to all. Jesse I'll be thinking of you especially tomorrow and hoping you feel warm and happy from all the good wishes coming your way.
To Jesse's fellow bloggers, Merry Christmas to those who celebrate it and for those who don't enjoy the time off with your family and friends.
Thanks to the shore team for the update on Jesse.
Can't wait for the video tomorrow.
Jesse once again I wish you Merry Christmas along with Good Winds and Safe Sailing.
jo
Hi Jesse,
I'll write to you again tomorrow but thought that, with the vetting of the emails that I would get in just in case anything I send to you doesn't get through in time.
Merry Christmas brave girl.
May joy fill your heart and may all things good come to you on this special day.
Open the presents, sing the carols and eat the special meal. We will all be with you in our thoughts and prayers today of all days on your journey.
At least you'll be somewhat cooler than we are.
Take care of yourself and make sure you give yourself that little extra treat that you really deserve.
June and Richard Thorn
Hi Jessica from Mt Colah north of Sydney.
I have not sent you an email before but you can count on it that I have been watching you every day and will contiune to do so till you get back in Sydney in June.Please make it the 2nd of June as that will be my Birthday and that would be a great time for both of us Ha Ha Ha.
Keep watching those petrels as they ride on the pressure waves.I found them very relaxing as they glide so beautifully.Have a good Xmas day and you will not be alone as some of the world will be with you.
John Stevens
Part of the James Craig crew.
Christmas Eve in Bundaberg - just dropping in to wish you a very Merry Christmas.
Geoff H
Bundaberg Qld
merry xmas Jesse and a safe new year.
anth.
Merry Christmas to you Jess! I wonder what Santa will bring to you.......hopefully chocolate will be part of your Christmas goodies that are stashed on board with you.
It is a very hot day here in Hervey Bay........I wouldn't mind some cool weather and fog tomorrow. Dreading the hot kitchen and cooking a roast dinner, but I guess that's Christmas in Australia.
You are not alone even though you are all by your ownsome there on EPL, we are all there with you in spirit!
Smooth sailing and safe travels to you and EPL, and your furry crew of course.
Samurai, that was a lovely post earlier about wishing everyone a Merry Christmas etc. Same to you and all the other bloggers from all over the world.
Seems funny to think of us here down under sweltering in the heat, while you in the UK and USA are battling heavy snowstorms.
Just once I would really enjoy a white Christmas.
Anyways..........Merry Christmas!
Don't forget to leave some snacks out for Santa and the reindeer, Jess!!
Lily in Hervey Bay, Queensland.
Tracey Lynn Hall from California who asked about winter in Australia and whether we have any holidays during that part of the year...........
Often we have Christmas in July in the coolest places where you go and celebrate Christmas by indulging in the hot and yummy Christmas foods that are usually enjoyed at this time of year. Lots of resorts, restaurants and hotels in the mountain area's have this celebration.
We don't have any festive days as such during our winters, no Thanksgiving as you celebrate or anything like that. In the winter months there is the occasional public holiday, but not a celebration as such.
Hope this helps answer your question.
Lily in Hervey Bay, Queensland.
merry Xmas to you and sail safe ....
Lut from Luxembourg
Awesome Jessica. May the Lord bless you richly this Christmas. Stay safe and we will be thinking of you as you continue to sail on. Regards
5metreswell Tasmania.
More Pictures, please!!!
I wish succes and luck to you!
wishing you a fabulous and safe Christmas!
Merry Christmas Jesse!
Hey Jess
Great to hear you are getting decorations up on EPL and are keen to dive into your sack of pressies.
Lets hope xmas day sees comfortable conditions - so you can enjoy your chrstmas lunch. With the cooler temps you will sure enjoy a nice hot lunch.
No peeking into your presents until christmas !!!
A big thankyou to the wonderful shore team for their message. I will be logging on tomorrow as well.
Remember Jess, your arnt alone christmas day, we are all cheering you on as we do every single other day. Gosh you have really peeled those miles away it seems as though you have only been out there a week! Passing Nemo is another milestone - farthest point from land.
Wishing you a good rest tonight Jess nad WAHOO pressy opening when you wake up.
Merry Christmas to you and your significant other: EPL and your 'cool' crew.
Carole (Mackay) Queensland
Hi Jess.
All of your pictures have been great. They help us feel like we are there with you, and in spirit, we are. Keep a sharp lookout as you near the Horn and keep up the good work.
Hi Jessica and Shore Team
Thanks for posting the lastest update, great to hear all is going well with Jesse.
I bet the Watson family will be a little sad this christmas without Jesse at home, but on the other hand, you all must be so proud at what Jesse has achieved so far, I know all us bloggers from all over the world are.
So to the Shore Team, all the bloggers around the world and to you JESSICA have a MERRY CHRISTMAS,
this will be one to remember.
Cheers George Simmons
Lots of love from Exmouth WA Australia
Merry Christmas for tomorrow Jesse. You will be a big part of many, many people's Christmases, including ours.
God bless and God Speed. You're a star.
Love Mel & family
Merry Christmas Jess!
12-24-09 @03:18
Hi Jessica,
Just want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and I hope you enjoy yourself to the max. I hope you'll get to talk to your family. Send them my best.
Take care and don't let them scallywags push you away from the table.
Always proud of you and always thinking of you.
May God be with you and watch over you and may the angels keep your sails full, and I will keep you in my prayers.
Michael (74) from Kingwood, WV
have a great christmas jesse
thanks for the wonderful updates of your adventure ....reading them gives me some lovely inspiration for my imagination and gives me an escape from everyday routines
best wishes
nik
Hello, Captain Jesse, with respect for Your turn! I hope the fog has resolved again. Mary Christmas for You. No homesick. You have many friends everywhere. Gert, Germany
HAWKEYE
Hi again Jesse - just in case you don't get an opportunity to update today I want you to know I'm thinking of you out there and wish you a happy and safe Christmas Day.
You are a beautiful girl who was virtually unknown to the wider community this time last year. But take a heavy breathe and pinch yourself - because that ain't the case right now. Bless you darl and I do hope despite the accolades that will come your way in the next 24 hours you stay focused on Jesse and her safety.
Have a wonderful day, I do hope the weather is kind and you can enjoy you first Christmas as a celebrity. Stay safe precious one and keep the head in the moment and everything will fall into place without to much drama. Take care darl and god bless.
HAWKEYE
Merry Christmas Jesse - We'll be thinking of you. Love the Walters family (Kerikeri, New Zealand)
Jessica, wishing you a merry christmas and happy new year from all the Parsons from Parkdale (Melbourme Australia).
Fair winds and good sailing - Murray.
Another Jessica Poem
Neptune’s Xmas Gift
With damp and coolness, settling down
A greyness came, the boat it crowned
Each gentle swell, rose lifting high
Punching mast, deep in that sky
Like eerie silk, it touched my soul
Out here alone, in search of goal
Yet strangely, not a scary thought
This shroud of mist, to me it brought
The winds were down, the seas so calm
So little chance, of doing harm
With sparkling colours, green, red & white
Lighting up this foggy night
So as I bed, for welcome rest
Outside my boat, his fogs no test
It’s just to spell my sailing skills
To rest me up, for coming thrills
But more I know, my Neptune god
Is here beside, and out in fog
With Xmas wishes for his girl
My God of sea, turned sky to pearl
Brumbyy
Merry Christmas, Young Heroine
Have A Marry Christmas Jess. Don't get to home sick
TO SANTA: As you pass over Point Nemo in the remote South Pacific, please look out for a small pink yacht with an incredible Aussie girl on board and fill her Christmas stocking with all the goodies she desires......
TO JESSICA: The Best Christmas ever....
TO ALL THE FELLOW BLOGGERS AND ADOPTIVE PARENTS: Have a wonderful festive season and keep supporting our amazing girl in her adventure..
Kindest Regards All Round, Martin, Canning Vale, W.A.
Hey Jess,
Just wanted to wish you a very merry christmas and the best of luck for the rest of your journey, you are an inspiration to us all.
All of us back in Australia are thinking of you this christmas.
Love Corrine, :D
Jessica,
We wish you a Merry Christmas. We hope Santa finds you and Ella.
Your doing a great job, good luck.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas
Courtney & James
Sydney
Go for it Ms Inspiration! We're about to venture up the NSW coast and are wimping out on 25-33 knots and rain forecast! Can't imagine what you are doing out there! Go for it! :-)
Colin & Hendrika Green, Port Hacking NSW
Happy Christmas, Jess, doin great!
We who can't do it love to hear (read) posts of your progress.
Merry Christmas Jess. You are an awesome young women. Enjoy your journey and have a fantastic day. Looking forward to your next post.
I was caught out in a thick fog once. Very erie. Your instinct says to this way, but the compass says go that way!
Just have to trust in your instruments :)
Wishing you the very best and a merry christmas.
Nadine
usa
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